Go with speakers first, the ssp800 is a very good 2-ch pre-amp also. Almost on par with the krell evo-202 and the theta cb3. Changing the 700 series will be a substantial improvement though I would try non-B&W speakers just to see what other brands have to offer. Wilson is a good choice though the dollars are comparatively high (for similar improvement) vs other competing brands such as revel.
Better to change Speakers first or new Preamp+amp
I would like some advice...
I currently have a Classe SSP800 with a Krell Theater Amplifier Standard (5x200) and a Krell KAV2250 running a B&W 700 surround sound system(703s for the L/R with the matching center and surrounds). I watch a lot of movies, but listen to mostly music; probably 30/70.
I am ready to upgrade and I really feel like my B&W speakers are now the limiting factor. I am interested in going with the Wilson Sophia 2s with the Watch Center. A big chunk of change, but I was blown away by their sound.
I told the sales guy my plan to upgrade and he told me that if I enjoy music the most I am better off buying a good preamp along with a good two channel amp with the money instead of the speakers first. (He recommended a Boulder 810 Pre with the Boulder 860 two channel running in home theater pass through for movies). I can then later upgrade the speakers.
Does this make sense?
Thanks
I currently have a Classe SSP800 with a Krell Theater Amplifier Standard (5x200) and a Krell KAV2250 running a B&W 700 surround sound system(703s for the L/R with the matching center and surrounds). I watch a lot of movies, but listen to mostly music; probably 30/70.
I am ready to upgrade and I really feel like my B&W speakers are now the limiting factor. I am interested in going with the Wilson Sophia 2s with the Watch Center. A big chunk of change, but I was blown away by their sound.
I told the sales guy my plan to upgrade and he told me that if I enjoy music the most I am better off buying a good preamp along with a good two channel amp with the money instead of the speakers first. (He recommended a Boulder 810 Pre with the Boulder 860 two channel running in home theater pass through for movies). I can then later upgrade the speakers.
Does this make sense?
Thanks